Electric blankets are a more energy-efficient way to stay warm than cranking up your thermostat. Having one can also be beneficial if you tend to be colder than other people you live with. When blankets are both heated and weighted, they have unique benefits, including helping lower anxiety. Here, health experts explain why heated, weighted blankets can be beneficial and give tips on what to look for when buying one. Plus, see 10 picks that people can’t stop raving about.
How Are Heated, Weighted Blankets Beneficial?
Dr. Suzanne Gorovoy, PhD, a postdoctoral researcher in behavioral sleep medicine at the University of Arizona, says that some people with anxiety may benefit from weighted blankets. “A weighted blanket offers deep touch pressure stimulation, which has both physical and psychological advantages that can potentially help with symptoms of anxiety,” she says. “Deep pressure stimulation might increase serotonin and melatonin concentrations while decreasing cortisol levels.” Dr. Gorovoy explains that this creates a calming effect, which may minimize stress, promote sleep and increase feelings of security. Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, Ed.D, a licensed professional counselor and certified school therapist, explains that a weighted blanket can help lower anxiety because it provides a constant level of gentle compression, which calms one’s nervous system. “The pressure of a weighted blanket simply makes one feel more secure and helps to reduce anxious body sensations,” she says. Dr. Capanna-Hodge says that when a weighted blanket is heated, it can be extra beneficial because the warmth causes the body to go into a relaxed, alpha-wave state. “This calm brain state makes one feel more comforted and an alpha brain state can reduce physical and emotional pain,” she says. While electric blankets are not recommended for overnight use, relaxing under a heated, weighted blanket before bed as part of an evening routine may help prime someone for a good night’s sleep. Dr. Capanna-Hodge says that this is because the blanket helps with relaxation and reduces restless body movements. When shopping for a heated, weighted blanket, Dr. Capanna-Hodge says to choose a blanket that is 10 percent of your body weight. “For a child with a clinical issue, such as ADHD, sensory processing issues or autism spectrum disorder, you can purchase a weighted blanket that is 10 percent of your body weight plus one or two pounds,” she adds. She also recommends finding one with a removable cover because the heat and weight can increase sweating and you want to be able to wash the cover. Dr. Michael Grandner, PhD, the director of the sleep and health research program and the director of the Behavior Sleep Medicine Clinic at the University of Arizona College of Medicine, says that heating controls, maintenance and price are all good to consider as well. “When choosing a heated weighted blanket, it is important to consider one’s personal preferences regarding the body temperature that they feel optimizes their sleep environment and sets the stage for good sleep,” he says. Ready to find the perfect heated, weighted blanket for you? Below are 10 high-rated options to consider. Here at Parade.com, we’re all about sharing products we love with our audience. When you make a purchase on an item seen on this page, we may earn a commission, however all picks are independently chosen unless otherwise mentioned.
10 Best Heated, Weighted Blankets
Next up, find out exactly why it’s important to get a good night’s sleep.
Sources
Dr. Suzanne Gorovoy, PhD, postdoctoral researcher in behavioral sleep medicine at the University of ArizonaDr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, Ed.D, licensed professional counselor and certified school therapistDr. Michael Grandner, PhD, director of the sleep and health research program and the director of the Behavior Sleep Medicine Clinic at the University of Arizona College of Medicine
